Colts Earn ESPN’s Highest 2019 Offseason Grade

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As you can see, it’s not just Sando singing the praises of the job that Ballard & Co. have done this offseason (the last couple, really); they’re also earning respect from decision makers around the NFL.


The Colts were among the flushest teams, cash-wise, when free agency began this offseason, but they refused to walk down Santa Monica Boulevard and come away with a dozen shopping bags full of designer goods, so to speak.


Instead, the Colts made calculated, sensible moves while also investing heavily in their own players, re-signing or extending important players like cornerback Pierre Desir, safety Clayton Geathers, guard Mark Glowinski and defensive tackle Margus Hunt. They even made sure to lock up five of their arguably most important special teamers to new deals — gunner Chris Milton, long snapper Luke Rhodes, receiver/punt returner Chester Rogers, punter/holder/kickoff specialist Rigoberto Sanchez and kicker Adam Vinatieri.


The Colts weren’t entirely reserved, however, also signing free agent wide receiver Devin Funchess and defensive end Justin Houston. Funchess adds an element to the Colts’ offense that they haven’t had in quite some time, which is a lengthy, playmaking receiver with a huge catch radius. Houston is a former All-Pro and perennial Pro Bowler who wreaks havoc coming off the edge.


The Colts were fortunate not to lose much in free agency, as players such as wide receivers Ryan Grant and Dontrelle Inman, safety Mike Mitchell and defensive tackle Al Woods showed value in their roles with the Colts, but do have quality replacements on the roster.


When it comes to the draft, the Colts were even more impressive. They appear to have made several solid picks, adding a ton of speed and athleticism to the roster — especially on the defensive side of the ball.